Permits an eligible retirement system member to receive, in lieu of an ordinary death benefit, a death benefit such member would otherwise be entitled to receive provided such member is a state-paid judge or justice of the unified court system or a housing judge of the civil court of the city of New York.

This bill allows certain judges and justices in New York, specifically state-paid judges and housing judges in the civil court of New York City, to receive a special death benefit instead of the standard ordinary death benefit when they pass away. This is intended to provide additional financial support to their beneficiaries.

Supporters of the bill would argue that it recognizes the important and often challenging roles that judges play in the legal system. By offering a more substantial death benefit, the bill aims to ensure that the families of these public servants are adequately supported in their time of loss.

Critics might contend that this bill creates disparities in benefits for judges compared to other public employees, raising concerns about fairness and equity in the retirement system. They may also argue that it could place an additional financial burden on the state's pension system.